Vol. 512 No. 1
45 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Education and Science the growth in the number of children in multi-denominational model schools in the past five years; his projection for growth in the next five years; and his views on whether the organisation Educate Together is adequately resourced to plan and support the development of this sector. [25225/99]
In 1993, there were ten multi-denominational schools with a total enrolment of 2,200 pupils. By 1999, these figures had risen to 23 schools, with a combined an enrolment of 3,578 pupils.
My Department maintains regular contact with Educate Together and, in this way, remains fully briefed as to the anticipated growth of multi-denominational schools. The most recent information obtained indicates that a further ten such schools are being planned for the future.
The Deputy will be aware that the major moves implemented in relation to the purchase of school sites and funding of school building projects will be of major benefit to multi-denominational schools. My Department provided Educate Together with funding of £26,000 in 1997 and £27,000 in 1998 to assist with their operational and administrative expenses. In addition, a grant of £7,500 has issued to the organisation in 1999. An application for increased funding has recently been submitted to my Department and is currently being considered by my officials. I hope to be able to respond to the submission in the near future.
